Resources and Development
- Types of resources
- Development of resources
Resource: Anything which can be used for satisfying the human needs is called a resource. In this definition, satisfaction of human needs is an important criteria for anything to be categorised as a resource. There are plenty of things around us but only some of them can satisfy human needs.
Types of Resources
Biotic Resources
All living organisms in our environment are called biotic resources. For example, trees, animals, insects, etc.
Abiotic Resources
All non-living things present in our environment are termed as abiotic resources. Example: earth, air, water, metals, rocks, etc.
Renewable Resources
Resources that can be replenished within foreseeable future are called renewable Resources. Example: agricultural crops, water, forest, wildlife, etc.
Non-renewable Resources
Resources which caanot be replenished within foreseeable future are called non-renewable resources. Example: fossil fuel.
Types of Resources on Some Other Criteria
Resources can be natural of human. Natural resources can renewable or non-renewable. Structures, institutions, population, etc. are human-made or human resources.
Resources on the Basis of Ownership
A resource can owned by an individual, or community, or the nation or the whole world.
Resources on the Basis of Status of Development
There are three types of resources on this criteria, and they are as follows:
Potential Resource
If technology for harnessing a resource is available, but the resource is not being used at a reasonable scale, it is called a potential resource. Solar energy is a good example of potential resource.
Developed Resource
A resource which is currently being used is called a developed resource. Examples: coal, petroleum, etc.
Stock Resource
If technology for harnessing a resource is not available, then the resource is called stock resource. Example: hydrogen fuel.
Development of Resources
- Resources are vital for human beings. But indiscriminate use of resources is creating many problems.
- Accumulation of resources in only few hands leaves others unsatisfied.
- Indiscriminate use of resources is creating many problems around the world, such as global warming, ecological crisis, disturbance in ozone layer, etc.
Thus, equal distribution of resources becomes necessary for sustainable development. Planning of resources is necessary to ensure equitable distribution and sustainable development.
Sustainable Development: Development which takes place without damaging the environment and compromising with needs of future is called sustainable development.